DNSFilter flags peak traffic to malicious gambling sites during Super Bowl LIX
Cybersecurity firm DNSFilter blocked 57% more traffic to malicious gambling sites on the day of Super Bowl LIX compared to the rest of the NFL post-season.
The sites were operating in states where online sports betting isn’t legal or providing betting markets without a permit from the relevant state regulator.
According to DNSFilter, fake and illegal gambling site use increased throughout the NFL playoffs, which ran over January, peaking with Super Bowl LIX.
The firm said 20% of malicious gambling domains identified during the NFL playoffs used ‘mirror’ tactics to avoid detection, and most malicious domains were categorized as malware.
There was also a 15% increase in illegal streaming of NFL broadcasts during the Super Bowl compared to the average between May and December 2024.
The 2025 Super Bowl saw a significant increase in betting volume across the US. FanDuel reported a record US$16.6 million handle on the event, while betting tracking company Pikkit clocked US$64 million in wagers.
Overall daily traffic through the gambling category of DNSFilter increased 71% in February compared to the year prior. That grew far faster than the 16% growth of DNSFilter’s network.
Overall gambling numbers increased because sports betting is legal in more US states, with states like North Carolina launching online sports betting in 2024.
TK Keanini, Chief Technology Officer at DNSFilter, said, “Our technology prevents access to unwanted content by identifying and categorizing threats and harmful sites before a connection is made. With real-time insights into evolving tactics, we’re committed to staying a step ahead, safeguarding users from threats tied to high-profile events like the Super Bowl. By continuously educating and protecting users, we can help foster a safer online environment during sporting events and beyond.”
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